Advert For Wood & Co, coal merchant 6810

During the Victorian era, large houses had a fireplace in every room. Sometimes householders burnt wood in them, but usually the grate was designed for coal. This provided a steadier, safer fire than wood and didn't need tending as often.

At this time, it was the job of domestic servants to get up early to start a fire in the most frequently used rooms. Fireplaces in bedrooms were considered a luxury, and only the very wealthy could afford them. Kitchens had fires burning all day long and were probably the warmest place in the house.